Important Zion National Park Update: The historic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and Tunnel will be closed to all large vehicles on June 7, 2026.
The Zion–Mount Carmel Highway has been welcoming visitors since 1930, when cars were a bit smaller, and the drive was meant to feel scenic, not stressful. Because the road, tunnel, and historic bridges were built for vehicles of a bygone era, safety studies in 1989 and 2019 confirmed that today’s larger vehicles can’t pass through safely without crossing into oncoming traffic or exceeding weight limits. These size restrictions protect visitors and this historic roadway while improving traffic flow for all visitors.
Fact: In 2016, oversized vehicles brought traffic to a standstill for 41 minutes of every hour.
Take steps to prepare for your trip by measuring your vehicle BEFORE arrival. Remember to include mirrors, tires, and ALL attachments (AC units, bike racks, satellite dishes, roof racks, after-market modifications). If your large vehicle exceeds limits, you will not be able to travel through the tunnel and will need to turn around at Canyon Junction or the East Entrance.
Large Vehicles CAN Still Access the park if:
- Parking in a large vehicle lot at Zion Canyon Visitor Center (limited space available)
- Have Zion Lodge pass
- Driving Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during the shuttle off-season
- Camping at Watchman or South Campground
If your vehicle or trailer is too large, this is an opportunity to refresh your itinerary by taking an alternative scenic route to Zion National Park with exciting stops.

Last Updated – March 4, 2025
The free Springdale Shuttle runs daily when the Zion National Park shuttle is in operation, from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., stopping at nine locations in the town of Springdale and Zion National Park’s pedestrian entrance. Parking in Zion and near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is limited, so parking in Springdale, near shuttle stops is advised.
Angels Landing Permits
Last Updated – March 4, 2025
Starting April 1, 2022, a permit will be required to hike Angels Landing. Requiring a permit to places like the Subway and Angels Landing helps make every person aware of potential risks and the necessary gear and skills required for undertaking that route. Visit our Zion National Park page for additional information.
If you do not get a permit in a Seasonal Lottery, or if you are still planning your trip to Zion, you can apply for a permit using our Day-before Lottery.
Learn more at go.nps.gov/AngelsLanding.
Responsible Recreation
Outdoor recreation is important to the health and wellness of those who live here, as well as visitors. We all play a part in keeping one another safe. While outdoors, visitors are encouraged to:
- Check park conditions online and individual state park social media accounts. Extensive wait times, closures, and other updates will be posted there.
- Choose to visit parks during a weekday or during non-peak hours whenever possible.
- Keep parks and recreation areas clean by packing out what you pack in, and respect facility closures like visitor centers, campgrounds, and restrooms.
Water Health and Safety Alert
A harmful cyanobacteria has been found in the North Fork of the Virgin River, which runs through Zion National Park. The popular Narrows hike remains open, but visitors to Zion National Park are advised not to swim or submerge themselves in the river and to keep pets out. Visit the Park’s alerts page for more info and guidelines.

